News

Chapter of the Year 2011-2012

Written in the mission statement is 'to increase the quality and quantity of ballroom dancing' and that is what the Greater Daytona Chapter #6026 in District 9 has done this year. Increasing their membership by 40% and implementing a community outreach beginner dance program that has serviced 439 people in dance lessons.

Attracting new members has been a goal of President Marta Pascale, determined to bring the joy and benefits (social, health and mental) of dance to the public. The chapter has a strong board that works as a team and supports the chapter in community outreach; performing at nursing homes to bring entertainment, elementary schools to encourage youth dancing, health fairs to promote healthy benefits and raise community awareness and the Mall Ball to exhibit and promote National Ballroom Dance Week in a four hour dance held in the center court at the local mall.

The chapter has established a good relationship with the local studios that provide instructors for the bi-monthly dances who have allowed video-taping so members can review the lessons via youtube.

They hold two dances a month; sponsor a weekly beginner program and a weekly 'practice night' for a low cost to practice what they have learned without the intimidation of following line of dance. Helping one another is encouraged as well as stopping in the line of dance is allowed during practice night.

In addition, the chapter inspired by the "Wounded Warrior Appreciation Ball™ " raised $2400. with a silent auction event and appreciation dance held on Veterans' Day. They also donate scholarships to their local District dancesport competitions and National Championship events.

The chapter also has a few "members only" as an enticement to join along with a Member Benefits package totaling well over $200. when they join USA Dance. To see the complete list the chapter encourages you to visit their website at www.greaterdaytonachapter.org.

Honorable Mention goes to:

The Mid-Michigan Chapter#2043, from Midland Michigan, Polly Bowman, president. With a rise of 20% in the growth of their chapter, they too have sessions of beginning lessons offered to the members and public in addition to supporting the Midland Community Shelter House for abused women and the Open Door for the homeless. And . . .

The Los Angeles Chapter #4031, Herb McGurk, president. This chapter puts together a Showcase event for Pros and Amateurs to perform which raises money for their K12 program supporting 5th grade classes at two elementary schools in the LA School District. In addition, their outreach program visits senior retirement homes over eight times a year.